Gov. Murphy signs bill allowing sports wagering in New Jersey

<p>Gov. Phil Murphy has signed a bill that would allow sports wagering in New Jersey.</p>

News 12 Staff

Jun 11, 2018, 7:16 PM

Updated 2,311 days ago

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Gov. Phil Murphy signed legislation allowing the state's casinos and racetracks to begin taking sport bets.
Murphy signed the measure Monday, making New Jersey the second state after Delaware to allow sports betting since a Supreme Court decision cleared the way for such gambling.
The governor signed the bill four days after the state Legislature sent him the legislation with a unanimous vote.
Under the legislation, a licensed casino or racetrack may accept wagers at a sports wagering lounge. The casino or track may also petition to operate a sports pool at a temporary facility while a sports wagering lounge is constructed. Online sports pool betting will also be allowed 30 days after the bill goes into effect.
Bettors must be at least 21 years old to participate. Betting will not be allowed on high school or college sports.
The New Jersey Racing Commission will hold a meeting Wednesday to review regulations.
Three weeks ago, New Jersey prevailed in a Supreme Court case that struck down a federal law limiting sports betting to just four states. Now, any state is free to adopt laws legalizing it. Analysts expect most to do so.
Dennis Drazin, the operator of Monmouth Park Racetrack, says Murphy will place the first bet on Thursday.
State leaders estimate that sports wagering will bring in about $13 million in taxes for New Jersey in its first year.
The Associated Press wire services contributed to this report.